Situated in the centre of the North Island Mt. Ruapehu with its summit at almost 3000 metres attracts some of the country's heaviest snowfalls. The two commercial ski areas, Whakapapa on the north west slopes and Turoa on the southern slopes are the nation's most developed with outstanding facilities. Whakapapa is b est known for awesome off piste skiing while Turoa combines great skiing with a vibrant apres ski scene. Finally do not worry if you don't have time for a holiday until October as Mt. Ruapehu is famous for its quality spring skiing.
The village of National Park
Located 100kms southwest of Taupo and 150kms northest from Wanganui, National Park is the highest point on the volcanic plateau.
National Park is near the Whakapapa skifield and is adjacent to Tongariro National Park.
The village of National Park, located on the main rail line between Auckland and Wellington, services the accommodation needs of the National Park area.
Close to the village of National Park is the Okapata Caves and the Traverse 42 - a popular mountain bike trail. There are many excellent trout fishing spots and 4WD bike trails.
National Park is served by The Overlander train from either Auckland or Wellington, InterCity Coachlines and by Mountain Air with services from Auckland.
Skifields
Vertical Drop: 675 metres
Terrain Analysis: 30% Beginner, 45% Intermediate, 25% Advanced
Average Annual Snow Fall: 3.25 metres
Lifts: 2 Quad, 3 Double, 4 T Bars, 4 Platters, 6 Rope Tows, Snow Making, 5 Restaurants/Cafes, Child Care, Ski School, Ski Rental & Repair, Ski Shop
Location: 26 km from National Park
No Road Toll
The village of Ohakune
Located 125kms southwest of Taupo and 100kms northest from Wanganui, Ohakune is the gateway to the Ruapehu skifields and the Tongariro National Park.
Formally a railway and timber town, Ohakune is the centre is for a wide range of activities ranging from 4WD, trekking, mountain biking, horse riding, trout fishing, historical finds to name a few of the many activities that are available from Ohakune.
Ohakune is served by The Overlander train from either Auckland or Wellington, InterCity Coachlines and by Mountain Air with services from Auckland.
Skifields
Vertical Drop: 720 metres
Terrain Analysis: 20% Beginner
60% Intermediate
20% Advanced
Average Annual Snow Fall: 3.25 metres
Lifts: 2 Quad, 2 Triples, 3 T Bars, 4 Platters, 2 Restaurants/Cafes
Ski School, Ski Rental & Repair, Ski Shop
Location: 17 km from Ohakune
No Road Toll
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